PROFILE: Patrice Tremblay. Design Director at NK iMODE.

LingerieBlog

2 years ago

My name is Patrice Tremblay and I’ve been the Design Director at NK iMODE since 2005.

What inspired you to become a lingerie designer?
After graduating from Fashion College I was keen on landing a position in a sector of fashion that was unexpected, so naturally when my first job offer came from a lingerie brand it was a dream come true and still is after thirty plus years.

What makes your designs different from others?
As a Frenchman designing luxurious vintage-infused silk nightwear with a hint of sassiness, my ambition is to inject this “je ne sais quoi” throughout NK iMODE collections. Consequently, I pride myself in preserving NK iMODE reputation which is indisputably synonymous with wearable timeless elegance easily transitioning from nightwear to streetwear.

What’s your favourite lingerie brand (not your own!) and why?
I am a huge fan of Carine Gilson, in my opinion this brand embodies the epitome of modern yet highly sophisticated lingerie with its exquisite lace workmanship unique to the world of prestige-lingerie.

Do you think there’s enough choice for D+ sizes?
The selection of nightwear in D+ sizes might be limited due to the complex nature of such product. A bra consist of a cup size and an under bust measurement hence the intricacy of creating nightwear with such restrictions. At NK iMODE we offer a selection of chemises, camisoles and long nightgowns offering gentle bust-support to accommodate bust size up to E.

Are you happy with the way lingerie is sized? If not what changes would you like to see?
I cannot speak for other brands but our clients have been very satisfied with the way our NK iMODE bust-support styles are consistently sized which help with returning customers. Being sold worldwide we offer a variety of silhouettes in a range of sizes to accommodate a wider variety of body types.

What advice would to give to an aspiring lingerie/swimwear designer?
I would suggest to an aspiring lingerie designer to find a niche that has yet to be explored or perhaps in its infancy so there is room to grow and standout from the crowd.

How do you get your inspirations for new collections?
My ultimate inspiration for NK iMODE comes in part from my love of old Hollywood glamour. This passion inspires me to design for discerning lingerie lovers appreciating revamped vintage-inspired lacy-bits adapted for today’s lifestyle.

Do you use paper and pencil to design your first draft or is it all done on computer?
I might start by doodling the gist of a style on paper however I much prefer to actually drape lace and silk on a bust form infusing instant life to that initial idea. This method gives me the ability to refine, tweak and perfect the silhouette of a new style to ensure best results. Unlike paper, women are made of beautiful curves demanding supreme attention.

What would you be doing if you weren’t a designer?
I might have considered becoming an architect or an archaeologist.

What are you working on right now?
I am currently envisioning what Spring/Summer 2018 might look like.

What makes a great lingerie model?
I might be tempted to say a congenial personality combined with an appealing figure, after all “you attract more with honey than vinegar!”